Did you keep them under cover or cast potent spells? I recall your garlic potion! Mature plants cope with early season damage, tho’ you’re right odd they should be such a choice item on the planty menu.

They’re said to be best in poor, well drained soil in full sun – mine grow in partial shade on a mix of rubble and heavy clay. A prickly spot for a cat to choose, bad luck. My cats like rolling in geraniums, so I put empty hanging baskets over the top of the plants in spring.